Howard will play a small-town sheriff in the event series that revolves around a mystery uncovered by a federal agent (Dillon) when he arrives in an Idaho town in search to two missing agents. Cast also includes Toby Jones and Melissa Leo.

Howard’s latest feature roles include three pics to bow later this year: “The Butler,” “Prisoners” and “The Best Man Holiday.” His most recent TV series gig was on NBC’s “Law & Order: LA” in the 2010-2011 season.

Fox has given “Pines” a straight-to-series order for a 2014 premiere.

Series was penned by Chad Hodge. Shyamalan is on board to exec produce with Hodge and direct the first of 10 episodes.